Hotels in Tsukuba

Tsukuba: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Serenity

Nestled in Ibaraki Prefecture, Tsukuba is a vibrant blend of nature and innovation, making it a unique travel destination. Famous for the majestic Mount Tsukuba, this city offers breathtaking hiking trails and stunning panoramic views. Explore the Tsukubasan Shrine for a spiritual retreat, and delve into the rich history at Tsuchiura Castle. With its array of museums showcasing science and culture, Tsukuba is a haven for curious minds. Just a train ride from Tokyo, this charming city invites travelers to experience its serene parks and captivating landscapes while enjoying a taste of traditional Japanese culture. For the best hotel rates in Tsukuba and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Tsukuba

Some of the best places to stay in Tsukuba are Ueno, Asakusa and Taito. Ueno, Asakusa, and Taito are vibrant areas in Tokyo, perfect for travelers. Ueno is known for its parks and museums, while Asakusa offers a glimpse into traditional Japan with the famous Senso-ji Temple. Taito blends both modern and historical attractions. For accommodations, expect a range from budget hotels to urban options, with some luxury stays available. For first-time visitors, Asakusa is ideal due to its rich cultural experiences and accessibility to other attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Tsukuba:

1. UenoOpens in a new window: Ueno is a vibrant area known for its family-friendly attractions, including Tokyo Disneyland® and the iconic Tokyo Skytree. This location is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy entertainment and culture. In Ueno, you can choose from several luxurious hotels. For instance, Mandarin Oriental, TokyoOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel that caters to business and family themes, offering exceptional amenities like meeting rooms and child-friendly facilities. Another option, HOSHINOYA TokyoOpens in a new window, is a 5.0-star ryokan that features natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation. Lastly, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at OtemachiOpens in a new window is ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway, complete with spa services and beautiful garden views.
2. AsakusaOpens in a new window: Asakusa is a bustling area known for its historic sites and proximity to attractions like Tokyo Disneyland® and Tokyo Skytree, making it an ideal base for family adventures. The hotels here provide a range of options for travelers. Asakusa View Hotel Annex RokkuOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, offers dining options and fitness facilities, while Asakusa Tobu HotelOpens in a new window also boasts a restaurant and entertainment amenities. For a more homely experience, consider Ryokan Kamogawa AsakusaOpens in a new window, a guesthouse that provides family-friendly services, ensuring comfort for guests traveling with children.
3. TaitoOpens in a new window: Taito is another lively district filled with shopping opportunities and cultural landmarks, including Tokyo Disneyland® and Tokyo Skytree. It's perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. Among the hotels, Asakusa View HotelOpens in a new window offers a 4.0-star experience focused on shopping, while The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon by HulicOpens in a new window features boutique accommodations with unique décor. For pet lovers, ICI HOTEL AsakusabashiOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry companions.

Things to do in Tsukuba for first time

A three-day trip to Tsukuba offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. Travelers can enjoy hiking through lush forests and mountains, relaxing in serene parks, and engaging in outdoor activities like boating and tours. This vibrant city is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Tsukuba:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the Tsuchiura City Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region. After soaking in the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll to Kasumigaura Park, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and serene lakeside views—perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying nature. Conclude your day with a visit to the Former Tsuchiura JS Honkan, a historical building that offers insight into the local educational heritage, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Ibaraki Flower Park, a stunning display of seasonal blooms that will surely delight flower lovers. Following this, head to Minedera Temple Sankoin, where you can experience the tranquility of a traditional Japanese temple surrounded by nature. Wrap up your day at Daitoku, a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy a local meal, giving you a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the iconic Tokyo Skytree, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. Next, take a short trip to Lake Teganuma, an idyllic location for a leisurely walk or bike ride around the water. Conclude your journey at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most famous temples, where you can explore the vibrant market streets and soak in the spiritual atmosphere before heading back to Tsukuba.

5 tips to find a great Tsukuba hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For budget-conscious travelers, the best months to visit Tsukuba are January, February, and September, when hotel prices are more affordable. To secure great value for your trip, international travelers should aim to book their flights at least four months in advance for better deals. It is recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city's attractions, which include fascinating museums, beautiful temples, and scenic natural parks. This way, you can experience all that Tsukuba has to offer while keeping your expenses in check.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Tsukuba, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections to find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, you're more likely to receive updates on flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you take advantage of great prices and good availability in Tsukuba.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Tsukuba.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for a vacation, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods while keeping in mind the ease of accessing the sites you plan to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Tsukuba. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Tsukuba

Here are a few must-try restaurants in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan:

• 喜元門本店 つくば研究学園: This highly popular restaurant is renowned for its exquisite fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and innovative culinary techniques. The menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, creating dishes that celebrate the essence of Tsukuba's rich agricultural heritage.
• 七福軒: A favorite among locals, this restaurant specializes in hearty, comforting meals that reflect the region's culinary traditions. With a focus on fresh produce and authentic recipes, 七福軒 offers a delightful experience that showcases the warmth and generosity of Ibaraki's cuisine.
• はりけんラーメン: Known for its creative takes on traditional ramen, this popular spot emphasizes bold flavors and unique toppings. Each bowl is crafted with care, using locally sourced ingredients that highlight the region's culinary creativity, making it a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Tsukuba

Tsukuba experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.6°F (4.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.0°F (27.2°C). September is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Tsukuba, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and September tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.